Configurable support device for reusable bags

ABSTRACT

Examples provide a reusable bag support device providing an internal support structure to hold a reusable bag in an open and upright configuration. The reusable bag support device includes a central panel and one or more additional panels connected via one or more spring-loaded hinges. In other examples, the reusable bag support device includes a spring-loaded wire ring compressed into a closed configuration including a plurality of overlapping coils in a ring formation. A bag attachment clamp removably attaches the device to a portion of a lip of a reusable bag. A fixture attachment is provided to secure the reusable bag support device to a bag fixture. A compression holds the reusable bag support device in a closed configuration. The compression clamp is released to expand the reusable bag support device inside the reusable bag and conforms to a variety of shapes and sizes of non-standard reusable bags.

BACKGROUND

Customers are opting to utilize reusable bags instead of disposablepaper or plastic bags with increasing frequency. However, reusable bagscome in a variety of sizes and shapes which rarely conform topre-existing bagging fixtures designed to hold open standard plasticbags. In such cases, the customer or the cashier typically must hold areusable bag upright and open manually using one or more hands whilesimultaneously attempting to place items into the bag. This iscumbersome and awkward for both customers and cashiers, which may tendto discourage customers from bringing their reusable bags. Moreover, theadditional time required to open and hold reusable bags open manuallyfurther increases the amount of time required to bag items and completecheckout, resulting in additional customer frustration and longercheckout lines.

SUMMARY

Some examples provide a reusable bag support device. A central panel ofthe bag support device includes a support frame forming a substantiallyrectangular panel covered with a flexible material, a first side, asecond side, a top side, and a bottom side. A first side panel includesa first edge and a second edge. The first edge attaches to the firstside of the central panel via a first spring-loaded hinge. A second sidepanel includes a third edge that attaches to the second edge of thefirst side panel via a second spring-loaded hinge. A third side panelincludes a fourth edge and a fifth edge. The fourth edge attaches to thesecond side of the central panel via a third spring-loaded hinge. Afourth side panel includes a sixth edge. The sixth edge attaches to thefifth edge of the third side panel via a fourth spring-loaded hinge. Abottom panel includes a top edge of the bottom panel, which attaches tothe bottom side of the central panel via a fifth spring-loaded hinge. Aset of fixture attachment rings are connected to the top side of thecentral panel. The fixture attachment rings are configured to hang on apair of bag attachment arms on a bag support fixture. A compressionclamp is configured to secure the reusable bag support in a foldedconfiguration when engaged. The compression clamp includes a releasemechanism configured to release the reusable bag support into an openconfiguration when dis-engaged. A bag attachment clamp configured tosecure the reusable bag support to a portion of a lip of a reusable bagwhen placed over the portion of the lip of the reusable bag and engaged.The bag attachment clamp holds the reusable bag support within thereusable bag to provide an interior frame support the reusable bag in anopen and upright orientation. An aperture defined by the central panel,the first side panel, the second side panel, the third side panel andthe fourth side panel when in the reusable bag support device is in anopen configuration. The aperture provides an opening through which a setof items is placed into the reusable bag.

Other examples provide a configurable reusable bag support device. Acentral panel includes a substantially rectangular panel having a firstside, a second side, a top side, and a bottom side. A first side panelincludes a first edge attached to the first side of the central panelvia a first spring-loaded hinge. A second side panel includes a secondedge attached to the second side of the central panel via a secondspring-loaded hinge. A bag fixture attachment ring connected to aportion of the central panel, the at least one bag fixture attachmentring configured to removably attach to at least one bag attachment armon a bag support fixture. A compression clamp secures the reusable bagsupport device in a folded configuration. A release mechanism on thecompression clamp releases the reusable bag support into an openconfiguration when dis-engaged.

Still other examples provide a compressible reusable bag support device.A spring-loaded wire ring is compressed into a closed configuration thatincludes a plurality of overlapping coils in a ring formation. Acompression clamp secures the compressible reusable bag support devicein the closed configuration when engaged. The compression clamp holdsthe overlapping coils together to prevent the spring-loaded wire ringfrom un-coiling. A release mechanism on the compression clamp isconfigured to release the spring-loaded wire ring into an openconfiguration when dis-engaged. The overlapping coils unwind or expandwithin an interior of a reusable bag in the open configuration. Areusable bag attachment clamp secures the compressible reusable bagsupport device to a portion of a lip of a reusable bag when placed overthe portion of the lip of the reusable bag and engaged. The reusable bagattachment clamp holds the compressible reusable bag support device to aportion of the interior of the reusable bag. The reusable bag supportdevice provides an interior frame support holding the reusable bag in anopen and upright orientation. The spring-loaded wire ring defines anaperture in the open configuration. The aperture provides an openingthrough which a set of items is placed into the reusable bag.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice including a set of bag fixture attachment rings.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice inside a reusable bag.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice including a spring-loaded wire ring.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice including a plurality of panels.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice including a plurality of panels connected via a plurality ofedges.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a hand grip includinga compression claim and a bag attachment.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice including a set of side panels.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a front view of areusable bag support device including a plurality of side panels and abottom panel.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a front view of areusable bag support device in a closed configuration.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device in a first open configuration.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device in a second open configuration.

FIG. 13. is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device in a third open configuration.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device in a fourth open configuration.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device removably attached to a bag fixture.

FIG. 16 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of afixture attachment holder.

FIG. 17 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device including a spring-loaded wire ring.

FIG. 18 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device including a spring-loaded wire ring in an openconfiguration.

FIG. 19 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a cross-section viewof a reusable bag support device inside a reusable bag.

FIG. 20 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device inside a reusable bag.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the figures, examples of the disclosure enable a device forproviding an internal support framework for a reusable bag during anitem bagging procedure. Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary block diagramillustrating a reusable bag support device 100 is provided. The reusablebag support device 100 includes a central panel 102 and a set of one ormore side panels 104 attached to the central panel via a set of one ormore spring-loaded hinges 106.

A compression clamp 108 holds a set of one or more panels 104 in aclosed configuration in which each of the side panels is folded upagainst the central panel 102 when the compression clamp 108 is engaged110. When a release mechanism 114 is activated to release thecompression clamp 108, the compression clamp 108 is dis-engaged 112.When the compression clamp is disengaged, the set of panels 104 arereleased into an open configuration. In the open configuration, the sidepanels are pulled apart/outward by the spring-loaded hinges connectingthe side panels to the central panel 102. The compression clamp 108 canbe implemented as a clip, clamp, snap, hook and loop attachment, or anyother type of device for securing the set of panels 104 in the foldedconfiguration.

A bag attachment clamp 116 is a device to attaching the reusable bagsupport device 100 to a reusable bag. The bag attachment clamp 116 adevice for holding the reusable bag support device 100 to a lip of areusable bag. The bag attachment clamp 116 can be implemented as aclamp, clip, snap, or any other attachment device. The bag attachmentclamp 116 in some examples is located next to or near the compressionclamp 108 on the reusable bag support device 100. In other examples, thecompression clamp 108 and the bag attachment clamp 116 are incorporatedinto a handle of the reusable bag support device 100.

A set of one or more fixture attachments 118 are optionally included onthe reusable bag support device 100. The set of fixture attachments 118can include a ring 120 or a hook 122 for hanging the reusable bagsupport device 100 on a bag fixture for bagging items in conventionalpaper or plastic bags, such as, but not limited to, a bag carousel. Insome examples, the ring 120 or hook 122 fits over a bag fixture arm tosupport the reusable bag support device 100.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 including a set of bag fixture attachment 202. In thisexample, the bag fixture attachment 202 includes a set of two rings,ring 204 and 206. The set of rings attaches to a set of metal supportarms on a bagging device, such as a bagging carousel.

A set of one or more spring-loaded hinges 106 is attached to each panel.In this example, a hinge 210 attaches a central panel 102 to a bottompanel 224 or a side panel in the set of side panels 222. The centralpanel 102 can be referred to as a back panel.

In some examples, the central panel 102, the bottom panel 224, and/orthe side panels are composed of a support frame 214 forming arectangular frame. The frame can define a central cavity or empty space,like a picture frame. In other examples, the frame can be covered in aflexible material 216, such as cotton cloth, nylon, rayon, or any othertype of material to form a substantially solid or continuous panel. Inother examples, the panels are composed of a solid sheet of metal orplastic, such as, but not limited to, a rectangular shaped sheet ofaluminum.

An attachment ring holder 218 is a cavity, housing, recess, or othercompartment for holding the bag fixture attachment 202 in a closed orretracted configuration. In this example, a release mechanism 114 ispressed or activated to release the fixture attachment(s) from theholder 218.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 inside a reusable bag 302. An attachment clamp 304 attachesto a portion 306 of a lip 308 of a reusable bag 302. The attachmentclamp 304 in this example is a clip or a clamp such as, but not limitedto, an alligator clip, a binder clip, jaw clips, spring clips or anyother type of device for removably attaching the reusable bag supportdevice 100 to a portion of the reusable bag 302.

The reusable bag support device 100 is placed inside an interior portionof the reusable bag 302 and attached to the lip 308 of the bag via theattachment clamp 304. The combination reusable bag and reusable bagsupport device 100 can be attached to a bag fixture via a fixtureattachment 310, such as a loop, a hook, a clip, a clamp, or some otherattachment device for removably attaching the reusable bag 302 to a bagfixture.

A compression clamp 108 is released to enable the reusable bag supportdevice 100 to automatically open into an interior frame support 314 thatholds the reusable bag 302 in an upright and open configuration. Thereusable bag support device 100 forms an aperture 316 into the reusablebag through which a set of one or more items 318 can be placed into thereusable bag.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 including a spring-loaded wire ring 402. The spring-loadedwire ring 402 includes a plurality of overlapping coils 404 in a singlering formation 406 when the spring-loaded wire ring 402 is in a closedconfiguration 408. A compression clamp 108 encloses the plurality ofoverlapping coils 404 to hold the coils in the compressed, closedconfiguration 408. If a release mechanism 114 is utilized, thecompression clamp 108 releases the coils to enable the spring-loadedwire ring to expand. The spring-loaded wire ring 402 expands to fit thesize and shape of the reusable bag.

The spring-loaded wire ring 402 can optionally include a hand grip 414.The hand grip 414 encloses a portion of the spring-loaded wire ring 402providing a smooth handle or other surface for a user to grip andmanipulate the spring-loaded wire ring 402. The user can hold thereusable bag support device 100 by the handle when placing the deviceinside a reusable bag or removing the device from the reusable bag.

The reusable bag support device 100 optionally includes an attachmentclamp 304 for attaching the reusable bag support device 100 to afixture, such as a bagging fixture, a bag carousel, a bagging shelf, abagging alcove, or any other fixture for bagging groceries.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 including a plurality of panels connected via a plurality ofspring-loaded hinges. A central panel 102 includes a support frameforming a substantially rectangular panel covered with a flexiblematerial. The central panel 102 includes a first side, a second side, atop side, and a bottom side. A first side panel 504 is attached to thefirst side of the central panel 102 via a first spring-loaded hinge 506.A second side panel 508 is attached to the first side panel 504 via asecond spring-loaded hinge 510. A third side panel 512 is attached tothe central panel 102 via a third spring-loaded hinge 514. A fourth sidepanel 516 is attached to the third side panel 512 via a fourthspring-loaded hinge 518. A bottom panel 224 is attached to a bottomportion of the central panel 102 via a fifth spring-loaded hinge 522.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 including a plurality of panels connected along a pluralityof edges. A central panel 102 includes a first side 604, a second side606, a top side 608, and a bottom side 610. A first side panel 612includes an edge 614 and an edge 616. The edge 614 is attached to thefirst side 604 of the central panel 102. In some examples, the firstside panel 612 connects to the central panel 102 via a firstspring-loaded hinge.

A second side panel 618 includes an edge 620. The edge 620 attaches tothe edge 616 of the first side panel 612. In some examples, the secondside panel is connected to the first side panel 612 via a secondspring-loaded hinge.

A third side panel 622 includes an edge 624 and edge 626. The edge 624attaches to the second side 606 of the central panel 102. In someexamples, the central panel 102 is connected to the third side panel viaa third spring-loaded hinge.

A fourth side panel 628 includes an edge 630. The edge 630 attaches tothe edge 626 of the third side panel 622 via a fourth spring-loadedhinge.

A bottom panel 224 includes a top edge 634. The top edge 634 of thebottom panel 224 attaches to the bottom side 610 of the central panel102. In some examples, the central panel 102 connects to the bottompanel 224 via a fifth spring-loaded hinge.

The reusable bag support device 100 is configurable to accommodate bagshaving variable depth and/or width. One or more panels can be added ontothe reusable bag support device and/or additional panels can be unfoldedto accommodate any bag shape or size.

The set of panels can be arranged in any configuration to suit any sizeor shape of a reusable bag. In this non-limiting example, the reusablebag support device 600 includes six panels. In other examples, thereusable bag support device 600 includes five panels, four panels, threepanels or only two panels.

The reusable bag support device 100 can include two or more of thepanels in any user-configured arrangement. In this example, the centralpanel 102 is connected to four side panels and a bottom panel. Inanother example, the reusable bag support device 100 includes thecentral panel 102 connected to a bottom panel and three side panels. Inanother example, the reusable bag support device 100 includes thecentral panel 102 and the bottom panel without any side panels. In stillanother example, the reusable bag support device 100 includes thecentral panel 102, the bottom panel and two side panels. In yet anotherexample, the reusable bag support device 100 includes the central panel102 and four side panels without the bottom panel.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a hand grip 414including a compression clamp 108 and a bag attachment clamp 304. Thehand grip 414 provides a smooth surface 706 for a user to grasp or holda reusable bag support device. In this non-limiting example, a releasemechanism 114 is incorporated into the hand grip 414. If the useractivates/depresses/presses the release mechanism, it releases thereusable bag support device from the closed configuration into the openconfiguration.

The hand grip 414 can also include an attachment mechanism 710 to attachthe hand grip 414 to a bag fixture. A release mechanism 114 canoptionally be provided to release the reusable bag support device fromthe bag fixture.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bag supportdevice 100 including a set of side panels. The reusable bag supportdevice 100 in this non-limiting example is in an open configuration.

In this example, the set of side panels includes a central panel 102, afirst side panel 804 and a second side panel 806. Fixture attachment 810and fixture attachment 812 enable the reusable bag support device 100 tobe removably attached to a bag fixture device. In this example, thefixture attachments include a set of rings which can be slipped over oneor more bag support arms. The fixture attachment 810 and/or the fixtureattachment 812 can be attachments, such as, but not limited to, thefixture attachment 310 in FIG. 3.

Each fixture attachment can include an extension arm for extending orretracting the fixture attachment. In this example, an extension armconnects the fixture attachment ring to the central panel 102. Likewise,the extension arm connects the fixture attachment 812 to the centralpanel 102. The extension arms are extended to their full length when inuse. When not in use, the extension arms can be retracted/collapsed intoan attachment housing to prevent the fixture attachments from snaggingon other items/objects when not in use.

A compression clasp 808 is provided to hold the side panel 804 and sidepanel 806 pressed against the central panel 102 when the reusable bagsupport device 100 is in a closed/folded configuration.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a front view of areusable bag support device 100 including a set of side panels. Acentral panel 102 is connected to a first side panel 904. The first sidepanel 904 is connected to a second side panel. A third side panel 908 isconnected to the central panel 102 and a fourth side panel 910. A lowerportion of the central panel 102 is connected to a bottom panel 224.

The examples are not limited to a reusable bag support device havingfour side panels and a bottom panel 224 connected to a central panel asshown in FIG. 9. In other examples, the reusable bag support device 100includes the central panel connected to three side panels and the bottompanel 224. In another example, the reusable bag support device 900includes the central panel connected to a bottom panel 224 and two sidepanels. In still another example, the reusable bag support device 100includes the central panel connected to a single side panel and thebottom panel 224. The single side panel can include either side panel904 or side panel 908.

The reusable bag support device 100 in this example includes a singlebag fixture attachment 202. In other examples, the reusable bag supportdevice 100 includes two or more bag fixture attachments.

The panels in some examples are connected via spring-loaded hinges. Inthis non-limiting example, two panels are held together by aspring-loaded hinge 916.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a front view of areusable bag support device 100 in a closed configuration. A first sidepanel 1002 and a second side panel 1004 are folded against a centralpanel (not shown). A compression clamp 108 holds the side panel 1002 andthe side panel 1004 in the closed configuration. When the compressionclamp 108 is released, the side panels spring open and apart to conformto the size and shape of an interior of a reusable bag.

The reusable bag support device 100 in this example include a pair ofhook-shaped fixture attachments. In other examples, the reusable bagsupport device 100 includes a single fixture attachment or no fixtureattachments.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device 100 in a first open configuration. In thisexample, the configuration is an open rectangular shape.

FIG. 12. is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device 100 in a second open configuration. Theconfiguration in this non-limiting example is another rectangular shape.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device 100 in a third open configuration. Theconfiguration in this non-limiting example is a “U” shape.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device 100 in a fourth open configuration. Theconfiguration in this non-limiting example is a pentagon shape. Theexamples are not limited to the configurations shown in FIG. 11, FIG.12, FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. The configuration of an open reusable bagsupport device 100 can include a pentagon shape, a triangular shape, acircle, a square, a rectangular shape, or any other shape based on thesize and shape of the reusable bag. Moreover, the examples shown in FIG.11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 can include a bottom panel (not shown)expanding perpendicular to the central panel to provide a bottom supportmember for the interior of the reusable bag. The bottom panel can be arectangular shape, a pentagon shape, a “u” shape, a round shape, anirregular shape or any other shape.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device 100 removably attached to a bag fixture. In this example,the reusable bag support device 100 includes a fixture attachment 1504.The fixture attachment 1504 hangs on a fixture attachment 1506 of a bagfixture 1508.

FIG. 16 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of afixture attachment holder 1602 attached to a reusable bag 302. Thefixture attachment holder 1602 encloses a collapsed/retracted fixtureattachment.

FIG. 17 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device 100 including a spring-loaded wire ring 402. Acompression clamp 108 encloses the plurality of overlapping wire coilsin a closed (compressed) configuration. When the compression clamp 108is opened/released, the overlapping wire coils unwind and expand into asingle expanded loop of wire conforming to the interior shape of anyreusable bag.

FIG. 18 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a reusable bagsupport device 100 including a spring-loaded wire ring 402 in an openconfiguration. The bag support device 1800 includes an open/dis-engagedcompression clamp 108 incorporated into a hand grip 414. The hand grip414 includes a handle/hand hold for a user to grip while removing theexpanded reusable bag support device 100 from the reusable bag. Theexpanded reusable bag support device 100 defines an aperture 316enabling items to be placed into the reusable bag.

The reusable bag support device 100 wire is spring loaded such that itexpands and takes the shape of the bag/mouth of the bag to keep it open.The length of the wire is user-configurable to accommodate a range ofsizes of bags. In some examples, the wire is two feet long. In otherexamples, the wire is four feet long. Thus, the wire in these exampleshas a range between two feet and four feet long. However, the examplesare not limited to these dimensions. In other examples, the wire istwelve inches long, five feet long, or any other suitable length. Thewire is composed of a flexible metal.

FIG. 19 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a cross-section viewof a reusable bag support device 100 inside a reusable bag 302. A bagattachment device removably attaches the reusable bag support device 100to a portion of the lip of the reusable bag 302.

FIG. 20 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a top view of areusable bag support device 100 inside a reusable bag 302. A bagattachment clamp 116 removably couples the reusable bag support device100 to a portion of the reusable bag 302.

ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES

In some examples, a bagging device is provided which holds a reusablebag open while it is being filled. The bagging device includes a foldingpanel design to hold the bag in place. The panel is placed inside thebag to be filled, in a folded state. The folding panel design includes aclasp that can unfold the side panels to hold the bag open and it isdone with the help of a spring action. Further, the clasp is attached tothe top edge of the bag

Other examples provide a spring and wire device for holding the reusablebag open. The spring and wire device can be contracted and expanded,depending on whether the user is bagging, or storing the bags. Thedevice is placed into a reusable bag in a contracted state. It isreleased and expanded inside the bag, to take the inner shape of thebag. Further, it contracts again once it is pulled out of the bag.

A plurality of configurable support panels forming a variety of shapesis provided in some examples. The support panels spring open whenreleased to conform to an interior shape of different sizes and shapesof reusable bags. The configurable support panels can be removed forsmaller bags or added to accommodate larger bags.

A spring-loaded wire ring including fixture attachment rings andcompression clamps to hold the spring-loaded device in a flat, foldedconfiguration is also provided in other examples. A handle on thespring-loaded wire ring has a release button/switch which can beactivated/pressed to release/expand the wire ring within an interiorportion of a reusable bag to hold the bag open and provide support. Thereusable bag support device holds the mouth of the bag open and fixed inplace while the user puts items into the bag. The device holds the mouthof the bag open and no issues for person filling the bag.

In an example scenario, the reusable bag support device is placed insidean empty reusable bag in a folded (closed) configuration. Thecompression clasp is released, and the side panels open away from thecenter panel. The panels press against the insides of the bag to hold itup and open. The clasp can be attached to the top edge of the bag,fixing the bag to the device. The device and the attached bag can behung from a bag fixture on a traditional bagging station, such as a bagcarousel, via a bag fixture attachment. The bag attachment clip holdsthe bag support device to the bag. The fixture attachment attaches thereusable bag support device-reusable bag combination to the baggingstation.

In another example, a spring-loaded wire ring is expanded or contracteddepending on whether the user is bagging or storing the reusable bags.The compressed spring-loaded wire ring is placed inside an interior of areusable bag in the contracted state. The compression clamp is releasedto open/release the device. The device self-expands and matches theinner shape of the bag. When bagging is complete, the device is pulledout/removed from the bag. The spring-loaded wire ring iscompressed/folded, and the compression clamp is engaged/closed over thering to hold it in the smaller (closed) configuration.

In some examples, the reusable bag support device is made of aluminum orsome other lightweight metal or metal composite. In still otherexamples, the reusable bag support device is made of one or more sheetsof a relatively hard material like plastic.

In some examples, the reusable bag support device includes two sidesfolded in with spring-loaded joints. The two sides are folded. In thefolded configuration, the bag support device looks like a folded sheetof metal or rectangular wire frame covered in a flexible material. Aclip or plastic handle holds the side panels in the foldedconfiguration. A release button releases the side panels permitting themto open and expand outward. You keep this device folded and then it justlooks like a sheet of metal. Clasp to attach the device to the bag andkeep it open.

The dimensions of the reusable bag support device can be anyuser-configurable length/diameter. In one example, the central panel isone foot/twelve inches wide. In other examples, the central panel is sixinches wide. The central panel in other examples is two feet/twenty-fourinches wide. The reusable bag support device applies to a variety ofdifferent sizes and dimensions of reusable bags.

Alternatively, or in addition to the other examples described herein,examples include any combination of the following:

-   -   the set of fixture attachment rings retracting into a set of        attachment ring holders associated with the top side of the        central panel, the set of attachment ring holders comprising a        release mechanism to release the set of fixture attachment rings        from the set of attachment ring holders;    -   the set of fixture attachment rings folding down into a set of        attachment ring holders associated with the top side of the        central panel, the set of attachment ring holders comprising a        release mechanism to release the set of fixture attachment rings        from the set of attachment ring holders;    -   an attachment connecting a first end of a vertical support        member to a portion of the central panel and a second end of the        vertical support member forming a ring;    -   wherein the reusable bag support device forms a substantially        rectangular shape within the reusable bag when in an open        configuration;    -   wherein the reusable bag support device forms a three-sided open        rectangular shape within the reusable bag when in an open        configuration;    -   wherein the reusable bag support device forms a substantially        pentagonal shape within the reusable bag when in an open        configuration;    -   wherein the reusable bag support device forms a substantially        flat rectangular-shaped object when folded into the folded        configuration;    -   a central panel comprising a substantially rectangular panel        having a first side, a second side, a top side, and a bottom        side;    -   a first side panel comprising a first edge the first edge        attached to the first side of the central panel via a first        spring-loaded hinge;    -   a second side panel comprising a second edge, the second edge        attached to the second side of the central panel via a second        spring-loaded hinge;    -   at least one fixture attachment ring connected to a portion of        the central panel, the at least one fixture attachment ring        configured to removably attach to at least one bag attachment        arm on a bag support fixture;    -   a compression clamp configured to secure the reusable bag        support in a folded configuration when engaged, the compression        clamp comprising a release mechanism configured to release the        reusable bag support into an open configuration when        dis-engaged;    -   a bag attachment clamp configured to secure the reusable bag        support to a portion of a lip of a reusable bag when placed over        the portion of the lip of the reusable bag and engaged, the bag        attachment clamp holds the reusable bag support within the        reusable bag to provide an interior frame support the reusable        bag in an open and upright orientation;    -   a third side panel comprising an attachment edge, the attachment        edge removably attached to at least one side of the first panel        via a removable spring-loaded hinge;    -   a fourth side panel comprising an attachment edge, the        attachment edge removably attached to at least one side of the        second side panel via a removable spring-loaded hinge;    -   a bottom panel comprising a top edge, the top edge of the bottom        panel removably attached to the bottom side of the central panel        via a removable spring-loaded hinge;    -   wherein the configurable reusable bag support device forms a        substantially flat rectangular-shaped object when folded into        the folded configuration;    -   an aperture defined by the central panel, the first side panel,        and the second side panel, the aperture providing an opening        through which a set of items is placed into the reusable bag;    -   a hand grip attached to a portion of the spring-loaded wire        ring, the hand grip comprising a smooth upper surface configured        to conform to a hand of a user;    -   wherein the hand grip further comprises the compression clamp        and the release mechanism to release the compressible reusable        bag support device into the open configuration when placed        inside the reusable bag or lock the compressible reusable bag        support device into a closed configuration after removal of the        compressible reusable bag support device from the reusable bag;    -   wherein the hand grip further comprises the bag attachment clamp        and an attachment mechanism to attach the compressible reusable        bag support device to a portion of a reusable bag or release the        compressible reusable bag support device from the reusable bag;        and    -   a set of fixture attachment rings connected to a portion of the        spring-loaded wire ring, an attachment ring in the set of        fixture attachment rings configured to connect to at least one        bag attachment arm on a bag support.

At least a portion of the functionality of the various elements in FIG.1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG.10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIG. 17, FIG.18, FIG. 19, and FIG. 20 can be performed by other elements in FIG. 1,FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 10,FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIG. 17, FIG. 18,FIG. 19, and FIG. 20, or an entity not shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3,FIG. 4, FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG.12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, andFIG. 20.

While the aspects of the disclosure have been described in terms ofvarious examples with their associated operations, a person skilled inthe art would appreciate that a combination of operations from anynumber of different examples is also within scope of the aspects of thedisclosure.

The order of execution or performance of the operations in examples ofthe disclosure illustrated and described herein is not essential, unlessotherwise specified. That is, the operations can be performed in anyorder, unless otherwise specified, and examples of the disclosure caninclude additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. Forexample, it is contemplated that executing or performing an operationbefore, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within thescope of aspects of the disclosure.

When introducing elements of aspects of the disclosure or the examplesthereof, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to meanthat there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,”“including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean thatthere can be additional elements other than the listed elements. Theterm “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of” The phrase “one ormore of the following: A, B, and C” means “at least one of A and/or atleast one of B and/or at least one of C.”

Having described aspects of the disclosure in detail, it will beapparent that modifications and variations are possible withoutdeparting from the scope of aspects of the disclosure as defined in theappended claims. As various changes could be made in the aboveconstructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope ofaspects of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained inthe above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A reusable bag support device comprising: acentral panel comprising a first side, a second side, a top side, and abottom side forming a substantially rectangular panel covered with aflexible material; a first side panel comprising a first edge and asecond edge, the first edge attached to the first side of the centralpanel via a first spring-loaded hinge; a second side panel comprising athird edge, the third edge attached to the second edge of the first sidepanel via a second spring-loaded hinge; a third side panel comprising afourth edge and a fifth edge, the fourth edge attached to the secondside of the central panel via a third spring-loaded hinge; a fourth sidepanel comprising a sixth edge, the sixth edge attached to the fifth edgeof the third side panel via a fourth spring-loaded hinge; a bottom panelcomprising a top edge, the top edge of the bottom panel attached to thebottom side of the central panel via a fifth spring-loaded hinge; a setof bag fixture attachment rings connected to the top side of the centralpanel configured to hang on a pair of bag attachment arms on a bagsupport fixture; a compression clamp configured to secure the reusablebag support device in a folded configuration when engaged, thecompression clamp comprising a release mechanism configured to releasethe reusable bag support device into an open configuration whendis-engaged; and a reusable bag attachment clamp configured to securethe reusable bag support device to a portion of a lip of a reusable bagwhen placed over the portion of the lip of the reusable bag and engaged,the reusable bag attachment clamp holds the reusable bag support devicewithin the reusable bag to provide an interior frame support thereusable bag in an open and upright orientation; and an aperture definedby the central panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, thethird side panel and the fourth side panel when in the reusable bagsupport device is in the open configuration, the aperture providing anopening through which a set of items is placed into the reusable bag. 2.The reusable bag support device of claim 1, further comprising: the setof bag fixture attachment rings retracting into a set of attachment ringholders associated with the top side of the central panel, the set ofattachment ring holders comprising the release mechanism to release theset of bag fixture attachment rings from the set of attachment ringholders.
 3. The reusable bag support device of claim 1, furthercomprising: the set of bag fixture attachment rings folding down into aset of attachment ring holders associated with the top side of thecentral panel, the set of attachment ring holders comprising the releasemechanism to release the set of bag fixture attachment rings from theset of attachment ring holders.
 4. The reusable bag support device ofclaim 1, the set of bag fixture attachment rings further comprising: anattachment connecting a first end of a vertical support member to aportion of the central panel and a second end of the vertical supportmember forming a ring.
 5. The reusable bag support device of claim 1,wherein the reusable bag support device forms a substantiallyrectangular shape within the reusable bag when in the openconfiguration.
 6. The reusable bag support device of claim 1, whereinthe reusable bag support device forms a three-sided open rectangularshape within the reusable bag when in the open configuration.
 7. Thereusable bag support device of claim 1, wherein the reusable bag supportdevice forms a substantially pentagonal shape within the reusable bagwhen in the open configuration.
 8. The reusable bag support device ofclaim 1, wherein the reusable bag support device forms a substantiallyflat rectangular-shaped object when folded into the foldedconfiguration.
 9. A configurable reusable bag support device comprising:a central panel comprising a substantially rectangular panel having afirst side, a second side, a top side, and a bottom side; a first sidepanel comprising a first edge attached to the first side of the centralpanel via a first spring-loaded hinge; a second side panel comprising asecond edge, the second edge attached to the second side of the centralpanel via a second spring-loaded hinge; at least one bag fixtureattachment ring connected to a portion of the central panel, the atleast one bag fixture attachment ring configured to removably attach toat least one bag attachment arm on a bag support fixture; and acompression clamp configured to secure the reusable bag support devicein a folded configuration when engaged, the compression clamp comprisinga release mechanism configured to release the reusable bag supportdevice into an open configuration when dis-engaged.
 10. The configurablereusable bag support device of claim 9, further comprising: a reusablebag attachment clamp configured to secure the reusable bag supportdevice to a portion of a lip of a reusable bag when placed over theportion of the lip of the reusable bag and engaged, the reusable bagattachment clamp holds the reusable bag support device within thereusable bag to provide an interior frame support the reusable bag in anopen and upright orientation.
 11. The configurable reusable bag supportdevice of claim 9, further comprising: a third side panel comprising anattachment edge, the attachment edge removably attached to at least oneside of the first panel via a removable spring-loaded hinge.
 12. Theconfigurable reusable bag support device of claim 9, further comprising:a fourth side panel comprising an attachment edge, the attachment edgeremovably attached to at least one side of the second side panel via aremovable spring-loaded hinge.
 13. The configurable reusable bag supportdevice of claim 9, further comprising: a bottom panel comprising a topedge, the top edge of the bottom panel removably attached to the bottomside of the central panel via a removable spring-loaded hinge.
 14. Theconfigurable reusable bag support device of claim 9, wherein theconfigurable reusable bag support device forms a substantially flatrectangular-shaped object when folded into the folded configuration. 15.The configurable reusable bag support device of claim 9, furthercomprising: an aperture defined by the central panel, the first sidepanel, and the second side panel, the aperture providing an openingthrough which a set of items is placed into the reusable bag.
 16. Acompressible reusable bag support device for reusable bags comprising: aspring-loaded wire ring compressed into a closed configuration includinga plurality of overlapping coils in a ring formation; a compressionclamp configured to secure the compressible reusable bag support devicein the closed configuration when engaged, the compression clamp holdingthe overlapping coils together to prevent un-coiling; a releasemechanism associated with the compression clamp configured to releasethe spring-loaded wire ring into an open configuration when dis-engaged,the overlapping coils unwind into a ring formation within an interior ofa reusable bag in the open configuration; a reusable bag attachmentclamp configured to secure the compressible reusable bag support deviceto a portion of a lip of a reusable bag when placed over the portion ofthe lip of the reusable bag and engaged, the reusable bag attachmentclamp holds the compressible reusable bag support device to a portion ofthe interior of the reusable bag to provide an interior frame supportholding the reusable bag in an open and upright orientation; and anaperture defined by the spring-loaded wire ring when in the openconfiguration, the aperture providing an opening through which a set ofitems is placed into the reusable bag.
 17. The compressible reusable bagsupport device of claim 16, further comprising: a hand grip attached toa portion of the spring-loaded wire ring, the hand grip comprising asmooth upper surface configured to conform to a hand of a user.
 18. Thecompressible reusable bag support device of claim 17, wherein the handgrip further comprises the compression clamp and the release mechanismto release the compressible reusable bag support device into the openconfiguration when placed inside the reusable bag or lock thecompressible reusable bag support device into the closed configurationafter removal of the compressible reusable bag support device from thereusable bag.
 19. The compressible reusable bag support device of claim17, wherein the hand grip further comprises the reusable bag attachmentclamp and an attachment mechanism to attach the compressible reusablebag support device to a portion of a reusable bag or release thecompressible reusable bag support device from the reusable bag.
 20. Thecompressible reusable bag support device of claim 16, furthercomprising: a set of bag fixture attachment rings connected to a portionof the spring-loaded wire ring, an attachment ring in the set of bagfixture attachment rings configured to connect to at least one bagattachment arm on a bag support fixture.